What is the Difference Between Categorical and Quantitative Data?

The main difference between categorical and quantitative data lies in the nature of the information they provide. Categorical data provides descriptive information about qualitative attributes, while quantitative data offers numerical values for measuring and analyzing quantities. Here are some key differences between the two:

Type of Values: Categorical data consists of labels or categories, while quantitative data consists of numerical values.
Nature: Categorical data is qualitative, describe

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Comparative Table: Categorical vs Quantitative Data

Here is a table comparing the differences between categorical and quantitative data:

Feature	Categorical Data	Quantitative Data
Type of Values	Labels or categories	Numerical values
Nature	Qualitative	Quantitative
Mathematical Operations	Limited (frequencies, proportions)	Extensive (mathematical calculations, statistical analysis)
Level of Measurement	Nominal or ordinal	Interval or ratio
Examples	Colors, genders, car types	Height, weight, temperature

Categorical data is qualitative and describes events using patterns of words rather than numbers. It is analyzed using mode, median distributions, histograms, or bar charts. Quantitative data, on the other hand, consists of numerical insights that represent quantities or measurements, providing insights into the magnitude, size, or amount of something.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.